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By Emily Bradshaw, guest blogger
One of the most popular trends still going strong 20 years after the term was coined. A distressed and timeworn look is the epitome of shabby chic decorating. Contemporary but classic, it has become a popular and universal style. The latest trend is shabby chic sheds. Evolving from the humble garden shed, functioning solely as a storage space for the lawnmower and garden tools. The shabby chic shed offers a perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea and read a good book.
1. Bringing the outside in
Floral prints are a strong theme within shabby chic decorating. You can incorporate these prints into your interiors easily using cushions and accessories. Also, you can hang plants on the outside of your shabby chic shed. Doing this gives the feeling of bringing the outside in, by creating a continuous flow from roses in your garden to the furnishings of your shabby chic shed.
2. Soft Pastel Shades
A signature way to create this look is by using a soft pastel color palette. Sky blue and pale pink are two of the most popular shades used when creating a vintage feel. To make-over the exterior of your shed, paint it in one of these shades and easily create a weather worn look by sanding the paint down to make it look distressed. If you don’t feel brave enough to paint the whole exterior, why not try painting pieces of furniture, such as a table or sideboard to display your vintage-style tea sets.
3. Recycle and Upcycle
Salvaged furniture is at the very heart of the shabby chic look. It’s also an inexpensive way to create a comfy and inviting atmosphere on a small budget. Have a look at some unloved pieces in your home and have a go at upcycling. If you are new to upcycling, start with something simple like repainting some unloved chairs or recovering a seat cushion in a new floral fabric.
4. Embrace the Imperfections
Remember signs of wear and tear are all part of this look. Embrace the peeled back paint and rustic window frames that may feature on your shabby chic shed. To make this look feel authentic and homely, it needs to feel lived in.
5. Vintage White
White washed wood creates a light and airy vibe to any shabby chic shed. It’s a classic color that suits the theme completely. You can also bring in white wicker furniture, soft linens and sheer drapes for the ultimate vintage white interiors.
6. Mix and Match Accessories
Shabby chic is all about mix and matching vintage accessories and furniture. Have a look around local charity shops for pieces that compliment your existing furnishings. Some accessories that would look great in your shabby chic shed are a rusty lantern, crystal chandelier, or a vintage teapot. Add some bunting and you are set. Most things will go with this theme, use your intuition and go for pieces you love.
7. Expect the Unexpected
It’s not just furniture and accessories that get repurposed in shabby chic design. Think outside the box and use something old for a completely new function, like an old pedestal sink transformed into a birdbath. Or, use it as a container and fill the sink with potting soil and a plant to make a cool new feature for your shabby chic shed. Have a look around markets and antique shops for unique pieces that may catch your eye. Transform something old into something new and exciting.
There are no rules when it comes to shabby chic decorating. If you follow some of these tips, you can transform an ordinary shed into a whimsical retreat that you can enjoy year-round.
Reprinted with permissions from GardenBuildings Direct.
